Indy Eleven injury report and starting XI predictions
Photo credit: Matt Schlotzhauer/Indy Eleven
Injuries continue to hamper the Indy Eleven roster. A familiar name returns to the report, but there are still options for head coach Tim Hankinson. The Soc Takes crew has carefully considered the available personnel for this weekend’s matchup vs. FC Edmonton. There is a problem though. The gang could not come to a consensus on the “best 11” or the best formation the Indy Eleven gaffer has at his disposal.
Let’s start with the injury report
The following players are out for round two vs. the Eddies of Edmonton: Eamon Zayed, Lovel Palmer, Craig Henderson and Don Smart. Adrian Ables is listed as questionable. Zayed has a cracked rib, Palmer is dealing with a lower leg pain (ankle) thing, Henderson has had a hamstring strain and Smart has been sidelined for much of the season. We expect both Zayed and Palmer to be available soon. It may be as early as next week. Henderson’s injury status is less certain.
A delicate attempt to point out Indy’s troubles without piling on: Even a practice player, Adrian Ables, has been unable to avoid the injury bug.
What will the team look like this weekend?
We’ve been informed that everyone other than the players listed above is available for selection. There are some tough choices to make based on form, performance and physical attributes. There are similarities. However, it is very hard to predict what Hankinson will do in these situations. He is wily. He is probably desperate for a win. And he is known to shake things up when he feels his hands are tied.
Neither Edmonton nor the Eleven are setting the world on fire right now. Both clubs are in a dire need of points to bring the season within reach. Indy Eleven captain Colin Falvey offered a sobering comment on the state of the season:
“Now it’s become a case of ‘forget about the spring, we need to get some points on the board to make sure we have a chance of playing in the postseason.’ It’s as simple as that.” – Colin Falvey
Get on with it
Here are three different potential looks for Indy. KJ is looking for Daniel Keller. Nipun is predicting a return to the 4-5-1 and I am looking for consistency.
Kevin Johnston’s projected starting XI:
Nipun Chopra’s projected starting XI:
My projected starting XI:
You can follow Aaron on Twitter @AGunyon.
